Legacy
Lillian Wald, 1867 - 1940
"Never in all the years have we on Henry Street doubted the validity of our belief in the essential dignity of man and the obligations of each generation to do better for the oncoming generation."
Wald died on September 1, 1940 at the age of seventy-three. Thousands mourned her at private and public meetings. Rabbi Stephen Wise of the Free Synagogue led a service at Henry Street's Neighborhood Playhouse; Dr. John L. Elliott led a private service at her Westport home. A few months later, 2,500 people filled Carnegie Hall to hear messages from the president, governor, mayor, and others testifying to Wald's ability to bring people together and effect change. Henry Street and the Visiting Nurse Service of New York still continue the work initiated by Wald more than one hundred years ago. At its centennial in 1993, the Settlement highlighted its services: addressing the needs of its contemporary neighbors, including advocacy for the homeless, building AIDS awareness, combating illiteracy, fighting domestic violence, and programs for youths and seniors.
Notes:
- "Never in all the years..." Lillian Wald, Windows on Henry Street. (New York: Little Brown and Company, 1934) 336.
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